Stories from Japan

JA-operated gas stations in Toyama and Chiba prefectures have implemented sales limits on diesel fuel.

Japanese authorities ended an advisory concerning a possible mega-quake in the northeastern part of the country. The meteorological agency and the cabinet office held a news conference following the decision on Monday at 5 p.m. local time.

The Japanese government is discussing strategies to diversify the nationalities of inbound visitors and businesses. This follows a period where tourism relied heavily on specific markets. Currently, there are no signs of a increase in Chinese visitors despite potential shifts in political tensions between Tokyo and Beijing. The move aims to reduce reliance on specific visitor demographics. The country requires approximately 6.5 million foreign workers by 2040 to address demographic challenges. Humanoid robots are currently being used to perform repetitive tasks to mitigate the labor gap. The discussion noted that the demographic shift is a pressing issue for the nation.

Japan is targeting 60 million inbound tourists by 2030 to boost the economy. Tourism consumption is projected to reach 15 trillion yen, approximately 94 billion US dollars. Inbound tourism numbers reached 36.87 million in 2025, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The Japanese government introduced a basic plan to promote the country as a tourism-oriented nation. The plan spans from April 2026 to March 2030. It aims for sustainable advancement, expansion of consumption, and economic promotion. Efforts are underway to draw more tourists from North America, Europe, and Australia. The country is also focusing on attracting individual travelers, moving away from a sole focus on tourist groups. This initiative comes amid concerns about over-tourism.

TWICE members Sana and Momo have been invited to serve as ambassadors for the film "The Devil Wears Prada 2" in Japan.

Japan has revised its civil code to allow divorced couples to negotiate or seek joint custody of children. The change is described as a milestone for the country. The move is described as a milestone that has been under discussion in the country for a long time.

Evacuation orders are being lifted for most areas in Otsuchi Town, Iwate Prefecture, following a forest fire. The town of Otsuchi has lifted evacuation orders for most districts, stating the risk of further damage expansion has subsided.

The Yokohama Rose Week 2026 is set to take place from May 2 to June 2.

A Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson warned that Japan is returning to instability in East Asia. The Japanese administration is reportedly increasing activity in developing its defense industries.

Japan Transocean Air (JTA) is updating its in-flight meal service for the Naha to Taipei route. The revamp features collaborations with local Okinawan producers to incorporate regional ingredients.